(This is the version most people will want. You need at least one post on Carpokes to download files!)
(See post #53 in this thread)
(See post #143 in this thread)
[Note: if you cannot download the .stl above, be sure you register and account and are logged in with at least 1 post on Carpokes. If, after that, you still have problems, feel free to email me at admin@carpokes.com.... ]
The basic idea is that it relies on a torque wrench to measure how tight the belt is. The tool has two small pointers that correspond to the new and used belt factory tensioning specs. The appropriate pointer should line up with the guiderail on the water pump when the torque wrench reaches 7 ft. lbs. (84 inch pounds).
Although I’ve tested it with multiple torque wrenches and calibrated the pointers to match the factory tool, I’d still consider this a beta version until we have several people actually print it and use it (i.e., use common sense and use at your own risk, etc., etc.) My plan is to update the tool after more real-world use, but at least in my garage, on my test motor, it works remarkably well. [May '23 edit, all feedback to date has been good, so no current plans to update the tool.]
The one in the video is posted in ABS with 100% infill and 4mm wall thickness. PLA should also work fine, if not better. The model has holes for six sheet metal screws (No. 6 screws 1.5 inches long) to give the tool the mechanical strength it needs to hold together. The tab that applies pressure to the belt is prone to snapping off without the screws, and the drive socket is prone to cracking apart. The screws seem to solve all that, as long as you don’t go past 7 ft. lbs. with the wrench. You may be able to get away without the screws if you use super hard plastics, like NylonX, etc., but I haven’t test that yet.
See it in action in the video below! All feedback encouraged!
